Thomas Hands Merritt

He was born March 4, 1937 to H. Donald and Helen (Hands) Merritt Sr. in Detroit, MI. He married Judy Wells June 4, 1965, she survives.

He is also survived by his daughters Mary Merritt, Melissa Bryan, and Barbara (Robert) Cast; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two brothers H. Donald (Margaret) Merritt Jr. and William “Pete” Merritt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters Frances and Catherine; one son-in law Craig “Huggy” Bryan.

Tom worked at Illinois Wesleyan for 18 years in the Maintenance Department. He also worked for East Lawn Funeral Home/ Service Corporation International for 20 years, he cared so much for the community, and was very proud for the years he served.

He was an avid golfer, and you could find him spending his days on the greens. He frequented his favorite lodges, the Moose and Eagles Lodges. More than anything he was a family man, he loved his wife, grandkids and family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be Friday, March 12, 2021 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington. Funeral service will immediately follow the visitation. Burial will take place at Hudson Cemetery, Hudson.

Memorials may be made in Tom’s name to Carle Community Cancer Center of Normal. 407 E Vernon Ave, Normal, IL 61761.